Science

Volcanic Gases

Run Time: 00:01:25

Scientists believe that our atmosphere was formed as a result of gases released from ancient volcanic eruptions. Geoscientist Chuck Blay, of Teok Investigations, explains that the force of gravity causes gases released during eruptions to cling relatively close to the Earth's surface. In fact, 80% of the Earth's atmosphere is within 15 km of the Earth's surface. Although it is true that some atmospheric gases are continually lost into space, there is enough gas released during present-day volcanic activity to make up for this loss. Featured Scientist: Sherilyn Williams Stroud, Ph.D.